The 16-year-old student was taken to an east London hospital by air ambulance but died from his injuries on Wednesday night.

A 15-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of murder remains in custody at a north London police station having been charged over the killing.

The Metropolitan Police said the boy, from Havering, is due to appear at Highbury Corner Youth Court.

Derek was travelling on the route 393 bus near Highbury New Park in north London when he was attacked.

His older sister Gifty, 29, paid tribute to her sibling. She told the Evening Standard: "I could not have had a better brother. He would do things for anyone and ask for nothing in return. He was the family handyman and could fix anything."

Posting on Twitter as @ShanFlockavelli, one of Derek's friends wrote: "I love and miss you already man! I'm so glad I got to talk and visit you before you passed away. I love you."

Another tweet read: "Just to think he didn't even get a taster of the 16 year old life. I spoke to him yesterday, be safe and enjoy it.. I just don't understand" She added a picture which appeared to show her and Derek in their school uniforms.

A post-mortem examination will be carried out in due course, Scotland Yard said. Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to call police on 020 8345 3734, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.